Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats.
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. is commonly known as the Alpine Meadowrue or Sulphur Flowered Meadowrue and is a plant species native to the western region of North America. The plant belongs to the family Apiaceae or Umbelliferae, and subfamily Apioideae.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to 30-70 cm tall and has a stout, pinnate stem that is covered with stiff hairs. It produces numerous large, yellow flowers that grow in flat-topped umbels with each umbel having 15-35 flowers. The leaves of Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. are about 10-20 cm long and 5-15 cm wide and are deeply dissected with a fern-like appearance. It has a taproot and reproduces via seeds.
Uses
The plant has a rich history of medicinal uses. The Native American tribes used extracts from the roots of Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. as a remedy for treating colds, fevers, and headaches. The plant also has a mild anesthetic effect and was used to ease pain during childbirth. Additionally, the plant is commonly used to improve digestion, stimulate appetite, and alleviate stomach aches and flatulence. The plant is used in traditional herbal medicine as a tonic and for treating respiratory problems.
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. is also grown for its ornamental value and is a popular garden plant. Its yellow flowers and deeply cut foliage add beauty to gardens and other landscapes.
Light Requirements
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate direct sunlight but only for a few hours a day. It is advisable to grow this plant in a location that receives at least four hours of direct sunlight. If grown indoors, it requires exposure to bright light for at least 14 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in colder regions, but it thrives in areas with a moderate temperature. The recommended temperature for growing Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. ranges from 10°C to 25°C. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C. However, it is important to avoid frost conditions as they can cause severe damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for the soil is between 6.0 and 7.5. It can also tolerate slightly acidic and alkaline soil, but extreme values must be avoided. The presence of adequate nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is crucial for the plant's growth. Adding compost or aged manure to the soil can help improve its quality.
Cultivation Methods
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats., also known as Alpine Lovage, prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soil conditions. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires a moderate amount of water. The seeds of Alpine Lovage can be directly sown in the garden beds during the early spring or fall seasons. The optimum temperature range for its growth is between 50-60° F.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Alpine Lovage are moderate. It requires regular watering, so the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Over-watering may cause the plant to rot, while under-watering may lead to wilting and poor growth. The plant should be watered deeply once a week or as needed depending on the soil’s moisture content, weather, and humidity levels. Adding mulch around the plant can help to retain moisture in the soil and reduce the frequency of watering.
Fertilization
Alpine Lovage does not require heavy feeding. However, to promote healthy growth and development, it is recommended to fertilize the plant with compost or well-aged manure during the planting. Appropriate fertilization during the growth period can significantly improve plant performance. Fertilizing once a month with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 can provide essential nutrients for the plant’s growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not a requirement for Alpine Lovage, but it can promote bushier growth and enhance the appearance of the plant. The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning the plant’s stem to a height of about 6-10 inches will encourage new growth. Deadheading or removing any spent flowers can also improve the plant's overall appearance and health.
Propagation of Peucedanum graveolens var. alpinum
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats., commonly known as mountain lovage, is a herbaceous perennial plant. It can either be propagated sexually or asexually.
Sexual Propagation
Mountain lovage can be propagated through seed. Sow the seed indoors in early spring or outdoors in the fall. Barely cover the seed as the plant requires light to germinate. Keep the soil evenly moist until germination occurs in two to three weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Mountain lovage can be propagated through root division or stem cuttings, although these methods are less commonly used than seed. Root division should be done in early spring or fall. Once new growth appears, dig around the plant and gently separate the roots into sections. Replant the divided roots in a new location. Stem cutting propagation can be done in early summer. Take a stem cutting from the plant's new growth and plant the cutting in soil. Keep the soil moist until roots appear, which can take several weeks.
Disease Management
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. is susceptible to various diseases that can negatively affect its growth and productivity. Here are some of the common diseases that can affect this plant:
- Fungal diseases: Root rot, powdery mildew, and rust are some of the fungal diseases that can affect this plant. These diseases can be managed by improving air circulation, reducing humidity, and avoiding overwatering. Fungicides may also be used to control these diseases.
- Bacterial diseases: Bacterial wilt and crown gall are the bacterial diseases that can affect this plant. These diseases are difficult to manage once they occur, so prevention is key. Careful irrigation and avoiding injury to the plant can help prevent bacterial infections.
- Viral diseases: Virus diseases such as cucumber mosaic virus and tomato spotted wilt virus can infect this plant. There is no cure for viral infections, so preventing the viruses from entering the plant is essential. Using virus-free seeds and avoiding contact with infected plants can help prevent viral diseases.
Pest Management
Peucedanum graveolens S. Wats. var. alpinum S. Wats. can also be attacked by various pests that can damage the plant. Here are some of the common pests that can affect this plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt. The use of insecticidal soap and neem oil can help control aphids.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. They can be controlled by washing the plant with water and using insecticidal soap.
- Cabbage loopers: Cabbage loopers are caterpillars that can cause significant damage to the foliage of the plant. Handpicking the caterpillars and using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can help control these pests.
Regular monitoring of the plant and maintaining good garden hygiene can help prevent pest and disease attacks. It is also important to remove and destroy any infected plant material to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
